Guide
The Autumnal Grand Festival at Kashiigu Shrine is a profound celebration steeped in history and tradition. As a highly prestigious shrine dedicated to the ancestors of the Imperial Family, this festival is a vital Shinto ritual to pray for regional peace and prosperity. A major highlight is 'Yabusame' (horseback archery), a traditional skill where riders shoot arrows at targets while galloping. This performance combines intense physical dynamism with a sacred atmosphere. Within the serene and dignified grounds of this historic shrine, you can truly feel the depth of Japanese spiritual culture.
The absolute highlight is the Yabusame ritual. After receiving blessings at the main shrine, three skilled riders proceed toward the Kashiigu grounds to pray for national stability and a bountiful harvest. Watching a single rider strike three consecutive targets with precision is the pinnacle of traditional performing arts. Additionally, the ceremonies at the main hall include 'Fumuka' (ritual dancing), 'Shishiraku' (lion dance), and the demonstration of the Yagyu Shinge-ryu martial arts, offering a majestic fusion of combat arts and music. There is also a special opportunity to receive an 'Atari-mato' (hit target), a highly auspicious charm believed to bring good luck and success in competition.
The 2026 schedule is as follows. Please note that each ritual follows a strict traditional timeline:
The event takes place throughout the Kashiigu Shrine precincts and the dedicated grounds. The sacred procession route for the Yabusame starts from the shrine office, winding through scenic landscapes featuring ponds and rivers before reaching the main grounds. The vast shrine grounds offer a harmonious blend of historic architecture and natural beauty, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing atmosphere of the festival.
Receiving an 'Atari-mato' (hit target) is extremely popular and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. These targets are considered highly auspicious for improving luck and success. Requests are handled at the shrine office, but the availability depends on the number of targets hit, so we recommend checking early. Additionally, special amulets (Omamori) are available during the festival to serve as a lasting memory of this sacred event.
As this is a formal Shinto ritual, please dress respectfully and modestly. A fee (Hatsuo-ryo) is required for the hit targets and special amulets. The fee for an Atari-mato is 5,000 JPY, and the special amulet is 1,000 JPY. These are processed at the shrine office. We recommend checking the official website in advance for the most current details regarding payment and availability.